Cattle Imports from Mexico Halted Immediately

The United States has hit pause on cattle imports from Mexico following the detection of New World screwworm (NWS)—an invasive pest with a deadly reputation. The flesh-eating parasite, known for burrowing into wounds like a screw, was discovered in a cow near Guatemala's border. The USDA has now restricted imports of live cattle, bison, and other animal commodities from Mexico to prevent the pest from moving north.

This halt could ripple through the beef industry. Mexico is a key supplier of live cattle to the U.S., helping to offset years of herd declines.

The New World screwworm last made headlines in 2016 with an outbreak in Florida—the first in decades. Swift action helped contain the pest then, and the USDA hopes to replicate that success by acting quickly now.

Producers are encouraged to stay alert for signs of screwworm and report suspicious cases immediately.

NWS is endemic in Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and countries in South America, with cases spreading north to Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, and now Mexico.

For more information, visit https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/cattle/ticks/screwworm